Pug and Dachshund Mix: The Complete Pug and Sausage Dog Mix Guide

What Is a Pug and Sausage Dog Mix?

The pug and sausage dog mix — more formally called the Daughund or Pugshund — is a designer cross between a purebred Pug and a purebred Dachshund. This small-breed hybrid combines the Pug's brachycephalic (flat-faced) charm with the Dachshund's elongated body and bold terrier-like personality. First-generation (F1) puppies inherit one parent from each breed, but the resulting traits can vary dramatically even within the same litter.

Unlike established breeds with predictable standards recognized by the AKC, designer crosses like the pug and sausage dog mix are not standardized. Two puppies from the same litter may look and behave quite differently — one might inherit the Pug's wrinkled face and compact body, while another might resemble a miniature Dachshund with a slightly shortened muzzle. This variability is the defining characteristic of any mixed breed, and prospective owners should go in with realistic expectations.

Parent Breed Breakdown: Pug vs. Dachshund

Understanding the pug and sausage dog mix requires looking closely at each parent breed. These two dogs have very different origins, body types, and temperamental tendencies — and any given puppy can inherit any combination of traits from either side.

The contrast here is significant. The Pug is a brachycephalic companion breed built for lounging and lap-sitting, while the Dachshund is a working hound bred to chase prey into burrows. When you cross them, you're blending two very different genetic blueprints — which is why predictability is limited.

Generation Types: F1, F1B, and Beyond

Size, Weight, and Physical Variability

One of the most common questions about the pug and sausage dog mix is: how big will it get? The honest answer spans a surprisingly wide range, especially if the Dachshund parent is a standard-size rather than miniature.

The biggest variable is body shape. A puppy that inherits the Dachshund's long spine and short legs will look dramatically different from a littermate that inherits the Pug's compact, square build. Some Daughunds have a moderately elongated body — longer than a Pug but shorter than a Dachshund — which is sometimes called the "intermediate" body type.

Coat Type Possibilities

Coat inheritance depends on which Dachshund variety was used as a parent:

• Smooth-coated Dachshund parent: Puppies will almost certainly have short, smooth coats similar to a Pug's. This is the most common outcome.
• Longhaired Dachshund parent: Puppies may inherit medium-length, slightly feathered fur, especially around the ears, chest, and tail. Less common but possible.
• Wirehaired Dachshund parent: Puppies may have a slightly rougher, denser coat with a more textured feel. Rare in this cross.

Pugs carry the gene for a double coat (a soft undercoat beneath a coarser outer coat), and this trait often appears in the mix regardless of the Dachshund parent's coat type. Expect moderate to heavy shedding year-round, with seasonal shedding spikes in spring and fall.

Is this mix hypoallergenic? No. Neither the Pug nor the Dachshund is a low-shedding breed, and the pug and sausage dog mix is not hypoallergenic. If you have dog allergies, this cross is unlikely to be a good fit. Consider a Poodle mix or a Portuguese Water Dog instead.

Temperament: What to Expect (and What Might Surprise You)

The temperament of a pug and sausage dog mix is where the unpredictability of crossbreeding really shows. Both parent breeds are loyal and affectionate with their families, but they express it very differently.

Best-Case Temperament Scenario

A well-socialized Daughund inherits the Pug's easygoing friendliness and the Dachshund's playful alertness. The result is a small dog that greets visitors warmly, enjoys cuddling on the couch, plays enthusiastically during walks, and bonds deeply with family members. These dogs tend to be good with respectful children and adapt well to apartment living.

Challenging Temperament Scenarios

Some individuals inherit the Dachshund's wariness of strangers combined with a strong prey drive and vocal tendencies. Others may inherit the Pug's stubbornness amplified by the Dachshund's independent streak, making training sessions frustrating. A few specific challenges to prepare for:

• Excessive barking: Dachshunds were bred to bark underground to signal their location to hunters. A Daughund with strong hound instincts may bark at every sound, delivery driver, or passing squirrel.
• Stubbornness during training: Both breeds can be willful. Positive reinforcement with high-value treats (small pieces of boiled chicken or freeze-dried liver) works far better than repetitive commands or frustration-based methods.
• Separation distress: Pugs are notoriously clingy, and a Daughund that inherits this trait may develop separation anxiety if left alone for long hours.
• Prey drive: The Dachshund's hunting heritage can surface as chasing cats, squirrels, or small dogs. Early socialization with other animals helps but may not eliminate this instinct entirely.
• Resource guarding: Some Dachshund lines carry a tendency to guard food, toys, or favored people. Watch for stiffening, growling, or snapping when approached during meals and address this with a certified force-free trainer early.

Health Considerations: Hybrid Vigor Myth vs. Reality

A common claim about designer crosses is that hybrid vigor — the idea that mixed-breed dogs are inherently healthier than purebreds — protects them from genetic disease. This is partially true but widely misunderstood. Hybrid vigor refers to the reduced likelihood of recessive genetic conditions when two unrelated gene pools combine. However, it does not protect against conditions that both parent breeds share, nor does it prevent structural or conformational health issues.

The pug and sausage dog mix faces several health concerns inherited from one or both parents:

The IVDD + BOAS Combination Risk

The most concerning scenario for a pug and sausage dog mix is inheriting both the Dachshund's elongated spine and the Pug's brachycephalic airway. A dog with this combination faces a double burden: spinal vulnerability that limits safe exercise options, and airway restriction that reduces exercise capacity. Managing weight becomes critically important because excess pounds stress both the spine and the respiratory system simultaneously.

What Responsible Breeders Should Test For

If you're purchasing from a breeder, ask for documentation of the following health screenings performed on both parent dogs:

• Dachshund parent: OFA or PennHIP evaluation for hips, spinal imaging or IVDD risk assessment (some veterinarians offer vertebral ratio measurements), eye exam by a veterinary ophthalmologist
• Pug parent: OFA patella evaluation, eye exam (CERF), screening for Pug Dog Encephalitis (DNA test available through the AKC-CHF)
• Both parents: Current dental health assessment, body condition score within ideal range

Always consult your veterinarian about breed-specific screening and preventive care for your individual dog. They can help you create a monitoring plan based on which parent breed traits your Daughund has inherited.

Grooming, Exercise, and Daily Care

Grooming Based on Coat Type

Most pug and sausage dog mixes have short, smooth coats that are relatively low-maintenance but shed consistently. Here's a practical grooming schedule:

• Brushing: 2–3 times per week with a rubber curry brush or bristle brush (e.g., Kong ZoomGroom or a standard hound mitt). Increase to daily during seasonal shedding peaks.
• Bathing: Every 4–6 weeks with a mild, dog-specific shampoo. Over-bathing strips natural oils and worsens shedding.
• Wrinkle care: If your Daughund inherits Pug-style facial wrinkles, clean the folds 2–3 times per week with a damp cloth or veterinary-recommended wrinkle wipe to prevent yeast and bacterial infections. Dry thoroughly.
• Nail trims: Every 2–3 weeks. Long nails alter gait and put additional stress on an already vulnerable spine.
• Dental care: Daily tooth brushing with enzymatic dog toothpaste (e.g., Virbac CET). Small breeds are prone to early periodontal disease — the AVMA recommends regular dental checkups starting by age 2.
• Ear cleaning: Check weekly; clean with a veterinary ear wash if debris accumulates, especially if the dog inherits the Dachshund's floppy ears.

Exercise Requirements

Despite the Pug's reputation for laziness, the Dachshund side brings real energy. Most Daughunds need 30–45 minutes of daily exercise, split into two or three shorter sessions. However, exercise must be adapted to the individual dog's body type:

• If your dog has a long spine: Avoid jumping on/off furniture, stair-climbing, and high-impact activities. Use ramps for couch and bed access. Leash walks on flat terrain are ideal.
• If your dog has a short muzzle: Avoid exercise in heat above 80°F (27°C). Watch for excessive panting, blue-tinged gums, or collapse — these are BOAS emergencies. Walk during cooler morning and evening hours.
• Mental stimulation: Both breeds enjoy scent work and food puzzles. A snuffle mat or frozen Kong stuffed with peanut butter provides enrichment without physical strain.

Cost, Availability, and Where to Find a Pug and Sausage Dog Mix

This mix is not as widely bred as popular doodle crosses, so availability can be limited. You're more likely to find a pug and sausage dog mix through:

• Small-breed rescue organizations — Dachshund-specific rescues (like Dachshund Rescue of North America) and Pug-specific rescues (like PugRescue.org) sometimes take in mixed-breed dogs
• Local shelters and humane societies — especially in areas with high small-breed ownership rates
• Dedicated designer breeders — verify that they health-test both parents, raise puppies in a home environment, and offer a take-back clause in their contract

Avoid: Puppy mills, pet stores, or online listings that can't provide parent health records, won't let you visit the breeding facility, or have multiple litters available year-round. These are red flags for irresponsible breeding practices.

Who Is the Pug and Sausage Dog Mix Best Suited For?

This cross works well for specific lifestyles but is not a universal fit. Here's a practical framework:

Frequently Asked Questions

What two breeds make up the pug and sausage dog mix?

A purebred Pug and a purebred Dachshund (also called a sausage dog or wiener dog). The Dachshund parent may be standard, miniature, smooth-coated, longhaired, or wirehaired — each combination produces slightly different puppies.

How big will a pug and sausage dog mix get?

Most adults weigh between 14–20 lb (6.4–9.1 kg) and stand 9–11 inches (23–28 cm) at the shoulder. However, the range extends from as small as 10 lb (4.5 kg) to as large as 25 lb (11.3 kg) depending on whether the Dachshund parent was standard or miniature size.

What will the temperament be like?

Expect an affectionate, loyal companion with moderate energy. The Pug side contributes friendliness and clownish charm, while the Dachshund side adds boldness, alertness, and independence. Individual puppies can lean strongly toward either parent's personality. Early socialization (between 8–16 weeks) is critical for shaping a confident, well-adjusted adult.

Is the pug and sausage dog mix hypoallergenic or low-shedding?

No. Both parent breeds shed moderately to heavily, and the Daughund is not suitable for allergy sufferers. Regular brushing and a good vacuum cleaner are essential.

What health issues might this mix inherit?

The most significant concerns are Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD) from the Dachshund side and Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome (BOAS) from the Pug side. Patellar luxation, eye conditions, obesity, and dental disease are also common. Pet insurance and a dedicated emergency fund are strongly recommended.

How much does a pug and sausage dog mix cost?

Expect to pay $500–$1,500 from a breeder, or $150–$400 through rescue adoption. First-year costs including veterinary care, supplies, and food typically total $2,000–$3,500. Ongoing annual care runs $1,200–$2,200, not including emergency medical expenses.

Can I use a collar on a pug and sausage dog mix?

A well-fitted harness (such as the Ruffwear Front Range or a similar Y-shaped harness) is strongly recommended over a neck collar, especially if your dog has an elongated spine. Collars put pressure on the neck and can worsen both spinal and airway issues. Use a harness for all leash walking.

How long do pug and sausage dog mixes live?

With proper care, weight management, and preventive veterinary attention, most Daughunds live 12–15 years. Some individuals reach 16+ years. Maintaining a lean body condition score (BCS of 4–5 on a 9-point scale) is the single most impactful thing you can do to extend your dog's lifespan and reduce spinal stress.